Severe Storms Threaten Jackson, Mississippi on Saturday

Damaging winds and hail possible as storms develop in the afternoon and evening

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:37am

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A dramatic landscape painting in the style of Caspar David Friedrich, with a dark, stormy sky filled with swirling clouds looming over a flat, desolate horizon, conveying the overwhelming power of an impending severe weather event.As a severe weather system approaches, the ominous skies over central Mississippi foreshadow the potential for damaging winds and hail.Jackson Today

The National Weather Service in Jackson has issued a marginal risk for severe weather across central and western Mississippi on Saturday, with the potential for storms to bring damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to quarter size into the evening hours. Residents in the Jackson area, as well as along I-20 and U.S. 49, are urged to monitor alerts and prepare for hazardous travel conditions.

Why it matters

Severe thunderstorms can pose a significant threat to public safety, causing property damage, power outages, and dangerous driving conditions. The Jackson metro area is particularly vulnerable given its location in the heart of the state and proximity to major highways.

The details

According to the weather service, storms are expected to develop between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, with the main risks being damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to quarter size. While the storms will be scattered, any stronger cells could quickly create hazardous travel conditions, especially along I-20, U.S. 49, and surrounding roadways. Localized heavy rainfall may also lead to brief ponding on roads and reduced visibility during downpours.

  • Storms are expected to develop between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 3, 2026.
  • The severe weather threat is expected to continue into the evening hours on Saturday.

The players

National Weather Service in Jackson

The local office of the National Weather Service that issued the severe weather alert for central and western Mississippi.

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What they’re saying

“Residents are urged to monitor alerts, secure outdoor items, and have multiple ways to receive warnings ahead of storm development.”

— National Weather Service

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and may issue additional advisories if the storm threat intensifies.

The takeaway

This severe weather event highlights the importance of being prepared for sudden storms, especially in areas prone to damaging winds and hail. Residents should stay vigilant, have a plan in place, and heed all weather warnings to ensure their safety.